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Ocean Action Project 2012

In 2012 five incredible Ocean Action Projects were put into motion after you voted for the conservation projects you believed would make a real impact.

From shark and manta ray protection to cleaning up the ocean from the growing onslaught of trash, our Ocean Action Projects are going from strength to strength. Keep up to date with the progress as together we fight for a cleaner, healthier ocean.

The Semporna Shark Sanctuary (SSS) aims to protect around 8000km2 of reef, open ocean and vital mangrove areas. Working with the community through workshops and presentations as well as visiting regional and national schools to highlight the importance of sharks, shark conservation in Sabah and the SSS.

Focusing on one of the primary shark/manta fish markets in Indonesia: Tanjung Luar, Lombok, data is being collected on the number of catches of all species of sharks and rays caught, but specifically bull and tiger sharks and giant and reef manta rays (all unprotected keystone species). An assessment of fishermen’s earnings, where they fish, and their methods along with the economic network that extends from catch to consumer is also being conducted.

The Koh Tao Debris Master Plan is focusing on four areas of action: (1) Beach and Road Bin Installation (2) Daily/weekly island clean-up crew (3) Anti-plastic and foam box Campaign (4) Signage on beaches and roads. The results will see a reduction in litter and debris on the reefs and beaches plus empower the community and local businesses to be part of the solution.

Building on a successful pilot project with the conservation group PRETOMA, the local sea turtle field station is transforming into an action and awareness centre for the community to engage on the issue of marine debris.

Based in the Galapagos Science Center and in collaboration with the Galapagos National Park, this project is identifying key ecosystems to include in the zoning scheme of the Galapagos Marine Reserve. Using state of the art technology the study works hand in hand with local fishermen, National Park staff and local students from the Galapagos Institute of Arts and Sciences. Only with scientifically sound data, awareness and community involvement can the project accomplish a successful new zoning scheme for the marine reserve.

Check out the Ocean Action Project 2013 for the next wave of community projects to tackle just some of the problems facing our ocean.